Monthly pension assistance was distributed to 76 persons with disabilities from different localities of Singjamei Assembly Constituency at the office of the All Manipur Disabled and Handicapped Persons Development Agency, Singjamei Chingamakha Khsetri Leikai, Nambul Mapal, Imphal West, on Monday.
The assistance was sponsored by Oinam Romen Singh, PCC member of the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee, who has been supporting the initiative for the past 15 years.
Speaking at the programme, Romen said the assistance was extended out of concern for the welfare of persons with disabilities and not for political gains. He stressed that pension was a right rather than charity and called for ensuring dignity, equal opportunities and social inclusion for persons with disabilities.
He assured continued support, including timely medical assistance, mobility aids, skill development, self-employment opportunities and access to inclusive welfare schemes.
Romen also criticised the BJP-led government for failing to fulfil its promise of providing ¹ 10,000 in financial assistance to women before Ningol Chakkouba, alleging that the announcement was made with electoral considerations.
Beneficiaries and their family members expressed gratitude for the assistance. Kakchingtabam Rajen Sharma and Heisnam Shyama also attended the programme.